Japanese, other automakers hit with air bag recall

DETROIT — Six automakers, including Toyota, Honda and Nissan, are recalling nearly 3.4 million older-model vehicles because of defective air bags.

YURI KAGEYAMA and TOM KRISHER

DETROIT — Six automakers, including Toyota, Honda and Nissan, are recalling nearly 3.4 million older-model vehicles because of defective air bags.

The recall mainly affects cars sold by Japanese automakers in North America, Europe and Japan. A small number of cars made by Germany's BMW AG and General Motors Co. are also involved.

The front passenger air bags all were made by the same parts supplier, Japan's Takata Corp. They have faulty inflator mechanisms that don't route gas into the air bags. Instead, the high-pressure gas can launch plastic and metal parts from the air bags.

The recall is so large because many automakers use common parts on multiple models to cut costs and simplify manufacturing. This approach was pioneered by Japanese automakers.

Toyota will have to inspect or fix 1.7 million vehicles worldwide. The models include the Corolla company, Matrix hatchback, Sequoia SUV, and Tundra pickup, as well as the Lexus SC 430 sports car. All manufactured from 2001 to 2003.

But the latest recall affects other major automakers, including Toyota's chief Japanese competitor. Honda Motor Co. is recalling models including the Civic company, CR-V small SUV and Odyssey minivan from 2001 to 2003.

Also, Nissan Motor Co. is recalling the Nissan Maxima midsize sedan, Pathfinder SUV and Sentra company as well as the Infiniti FX crossover and QX4 SUV, all from 2001-2003. Recalled models in Japan include the Cube, X-Trail, Maxima and Teana.

Mazda Motor Co. is also part of the recall. Mazda RX-8 and Mazda 6 cars are affected. The company said recalls will be announced in North America, Europe, China and elsewhere.

At GM, only the 2003 Pontiac Vibe hatchbacks sold in the U.S. and Canada are being recalled.